These were the themes of PMI Global Congress 2016—North America. Words of contemplation listed on a wall, blasted on screens, without context. Until we started the program and it all became clear.

Written as a closing for the Congress, "Elevation through Conflict" was about influencing change by anticipating risks, introducing healthy debate to find solutions, and really standing up for what you believe in...

The article has nicely generated some fabulous feedback, with a range of opinions:

"I read your article titled Elevation through Conflict, and was incredibly moved by it. I have also discovered the need for trust as a foundation to conflict. When a team is in an environment where they feel safe, they are more apt to disagree and to discuss openly their disagreements. I've found that being in a place of fear actually eliminates conflict and leads to the loudest voice being followed. As a project manager, I strive to ensure that healthy discussion is a part of every decision point. It's so important to have multiple perspectives, and it significantly lowers risk - all points that you mentioned.

I was especially moved, however, by the final section of your article. I completely agree and am so happy to find that you, and apparently others in our field, agree as well. It is imperative that we take our positions of leadership and use them to influence this world in a more positive way. Understanding what cost really means is so important.

I'd like to add you to my connections, if only so that I can follow your work and learn from it. Who knows, perhaps someday in the future we can work together on a project.

- Kelly Bakhos"

"I agree with questioning accept when the answer is obvious. Questioning just for the sake of questioning can be irritating and slow down processes. That is the purpose of Lessons Learned."

"Great article Karen! I agree with you on the Influence. A healthy debate is always good. However, as Michael said above, disagreement for the sake of it can be irritating and might not always be fruitful."

"Thanks Karen, I think you may have just saved my sanity (for one more day at least)."

AnticipateWhat can we anticipate, and how do we do so?

Influence Is there a need to influence people, or is it more critical to influence decisions and strategies, to determine our collective goals and to achieve that outcome?

ElevateHow do we bring ourselves to the next level? What impact are we trying to have? And who are we doing it for?